ONE of the most anticipated art exhibitions of the year, Kita Orang: Blue & White 2025 International Group Exhibition, is now taking place at The Whiteaways Arcade in Beach Street.
The large-scale showcase features works by 400 artists from over 20 countries, brought together in honour of the 400th anniversary of the historic Wanli Shipwreck, a Portuguese vessel believed to have carried thousands of blue-and-white porcelain pieces across the seas.
‘Kita Orang’, translated as We, the People, reflects the heart of the exhibition, art for all, without borders, without limits.
Organised by Lai Lai Art Gallery & Studio, the exhibition will run from today until Nov 20.
Lai Lai Art Gallery & Studio founder Alice Chang said every artwork is an expression in its own right.
“Some thoughtful, some whimsical, some daring but all are united by the iconic tones of blue and white.
“This exhibition brings together 400 artists from around the world to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Wanli Shipwreck, a story that links Malaysia to centuries of trade, art, and cultural exchange.
“The timeless beauty of blue-and-white porcelain continues to inspire, and here, audiences will see it reimagined in fresh and contemporary ways.
“From established artists to children and community creators, every voice is present on this canvas,” she said.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the opening ceremony today.
In his address, Chow commended Chang and her team for bringing such a meaningful and visually compelling exhibition to Penang.
“This is the second stop of its nationwide tour following its successful debut in Kuala Lumpur, before it travels next to Kuching, Sarawak.
“And I am especially pleased to note that this is the first time such an exhibition is being held here in Penang, in the heart of our Unesco World Heritage city.
“It is understood that the number 400 carries profound historical relevance. This year, 2025, marks the 400th anniversary of the Wanli Shipwreck, a 17th-century vessel that sank off the coast of Malaysia in 1625, carrying blue-and-white porcelain from Jingdezhen, China,” he said.
Chow reiterated that in Penang, art and culture are not mere adornments, they are engines of growth.
“Our local artists, galleries, and creative communities form part of the orange economy or better known as the creative economy.
“It is a growing sector that plays a meaningful role in the state’s economic landscape, aligned with the aspirations of Penang2030.
“Exhibitions like Kita Orang: Blue & White reflect this perfectly, showing how art can honour heritage while inspiring innovation and new opportunities.
“Such events also reinforce Penang’s standing as a destination for creative tourism where art, history, and community intersect to inspire both locals and visitors,” he added.
Chow also urged the Penang Art District to explore ways to strengthen the state’s arts ecosystem.
“We want an arts ecosystem that supports our talents, attracts international collaboration, and positions Penang as a national leader in arts development.
“Events and programmes are important. But even more important is generating effective, practical and viable policies that help our artists grow,” he said.
Also present were Malaysian Watercolour Society chairman Calvin Chua and Angkatan Pelukis SeMalaysia president Abu Zaki Hadri.
- Opening hours for Kita Orang: Blue & White 2025 International Group Exhibition at The Whiteaways Arcade:
• Tuesday – Friday: 11am – 5.30pm
• Saturday: 11am – 6pm
• Sunday: 11am – 5pm
• Monday: Closed
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video by Law Suun Ting